A TEENAGE girl has been sexually assaulted outside a nightclub in Atherton.

The 19-year-old girl had been enjoying a night out with her friend at The Club House, formerly The Atherton Liberal Club, in Flapper Fold Lane when the attack happened.

At about 3am she was stood outside when a man grabbed her from behind and sexually assaulted her.

It was not until her friend witnessed what was happening that the attacker stopped and ran off.

It is believed that he may have got into a red Vauxhall and drove off along Rosedale Road towards Atherton Library and out of sight.

The attacker was white, in his late 20s, 5ft 8in tall, medium build with light brown hair cut short at the back and sides. He was wearing a black Superdry jacket and dark coloured jeans.

Police are now appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Det Con Stuart Woodhead said: "Whether the offender was highly intoxicated from drinking that evening, there is absolute no defence or excuse for sexually assaulting a young woman in this way.

"She was minding her own business when this man subjected her to a serious sexual assault right outside the nightclub and it was not until her friend shouted that he stopped and fled.

"We need to find this man and send a message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

"I would therefore urge anyone who recognises the man from the above description to come forward.

“Perhaps you were in the club that night and you remember him? Or perhaps you saw the red Vauxhall being driven at speed?

"If you have anyone information whatsoever please call us."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 8567225 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.